BioClima: public-private funding for nature conservation in Lombardy

BioClima is a 2022 initiative by Lombardy Region and Fondazione Carpió, funded under the EU’s LIFE GESTIRE 2020 programme, supporting biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation in protected areas and Natura 2000 sites. It mobilises €5.6 million in total, combining €3.5 million in public grants with €1.5 million in private co-financing, targeting 16 priority habitats and 22 species. The programme delivers habitat restoration, invasive species removal, and ecological corridor development, resulting in 300+ hectares of forest improvement, 27 hectares of targeted biodiversity interventions, and 66,000 trees planted with ecologically sourced material. Over 150 individuals have been trained in sustainable forest management and ecosystem service verification. FSC certification covers 3,000+ hectares, with verified improvements in hydrological services. The initiative includes 20 on-site events and 100+ media mentions, aligning with the EU Nature Restoration Law’s 2030 and 2050 targets. By integrating public and private funding, BioClima offers a scalable model for conservation across Europe.